Getting kids involved in preparing meals is one way to teach them healthy eating habits.

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With kids back in school and families busier than ever, it can be difficult to make sure our families are eating as healthy as possible. So, what are some ways we can keep our family on track with healthy eating?

Well, planning ahead is one of the best things we can do. Spending just an hour each weekend preparing one or two meals that can be frozen and quickly reheated throughout the week or taken to work is a great way to be ready for a busy week ahead. Simple chili recipes, stews, or casseroles work well. Having nutritious, home cooked meals at your fingertips eliminates the urge to order takeout and provides you with more time to spend with your family.

How to get kids to eat better

Kids may be tempted to eat foods filled with refined carbohydrates and preservatives. So, how can we get our kids to eat better? Get them involved! Have them help you prepare individual baggies of mixed vegetable sticks that can be put in a lunch bag or snacked on after school. At the grocery store, have them select some of their favorite fruits and vegetables that they can put into bags. Having healthy on-the-go snacks helps kids, and parents, choose healthier options. It’s also important to have children learn to prepare their own healthy lunches. Talk about a balanced meal – with lean protein, whole grains, and colorful fruits and vegetables. Supervise as they build their own lunches because the eating habits they learn today will stay with them into their teen and adult years.

Some evenings it’s just not possible to spend a lot of time preparing a nutritious meal and even if we don’t have the time or energy to make a “traditional” dinner, there are things we can do to make sure our families are still maintaining a balanced diet. It’s crucial to keep healthy go-to essentials in the fridge and cupboard such as:

• Canned Tuna

• Eggs

• Whole Grain Crackers/Whole Wheat Bread

• Peanut Butter

• Yogurt

• Low Sodium soups

• Frozen Fruits & Vegetables

If eating out is your only option, look at restaurant menus online before deciding where to eat. That way, you will be aware of healthy options before ordering. Also, substitute fresh fruit or a salad for fries and 100% juice or low fat milk for soda. Eating out doesn’t have to ruin your healthy eating efforts.